Shillong, May 11: The big Shillong-based clubs stamped their authority on the 5th Meghalaya State League Round of 16 on Monday, with defending champions Mawlai SC, Shillong Lajong FC, Nongkseh SSCC, Nangkiew Irat SC and Rangdajied United FC all advancing to the quarterfinals.
Joining them in the next stage were Maram FC and Rymbai Shkenshynriah.
The scheduled clash between Langsning FC and Lumphyrnai Sohphoh FC in Mairang had to be postponed due to heavy rain and poor ground conditions. The match will now be played at the SSA Stadium on Tuesday at 6:45 PM.
The day began at the SSA Stadium where Nangkiew Irat SC edged past Khimusniang SC 2-1 in a fiercely contested encounter.
Neblejohn Lyngkhoi opened the scoring with a superb strike in the 31st minute before Nikelson Bina doubled the advantage just before half-time after Khimusniang defender Luckyness Khyriem was sent off for a last-man foul.
Khimusniang pulled one back in the second half when Dawanbiangmi Passah converted the rebound after goalkeeper Emerald Dan saved an initial penalty. Despite late pressure, the Jowai-based side exited the tournament after an impressive campaign.
In Amlarem, reigning champions Mawlai SC returned to top form with a ruthless 11-0 demolition of Thangskai Tiger SC.
Robertson Khongriah netted a first-half hat-trick, while Wadshwa Latoo and Jestibor Mawlong scored braces. Samlang Rympei, Fairming Suting, Kevin Rymbai and Basuklang Bina also got on the scoresheet.
At Khliehriat, Rymbai Shkenshynriah defeated Amlarem SC 2-0 thanks to a first-half brace from Hesmiki Rymbai.
In Williamnagar, Rangdajied United FC survived a stern challenge from Janepih YSCA before securing a 3-1 extra-time victory.
Mebannangkiew Thabah had given Rangdajied the lead in the 30th minute, but Edyson Iawphniaw equalised in stoppage time to force extra time. Goals from Ricky Mawlong and Elnathan D Wahlang eventually sealed the win for the 2023 champions.
Meanwhile, Shillong Lajong FC continued their impressive form with a 5-0 rout of Mishon SSCC in Wahiajer.
Substitute Fridison Wanniang scored a hat-trick, while Deibormame Tongper and an own goal completed the tally. Lajong have now recorded three 5-0 victories this season and conceded only once in seven matches.
At Mawkyrwat, Maram FC, the lone remaining side from Garo Hills, edged past Seng Samla Umdang Pyllun 1-0 through a 68th-minute strike by Tremarchwal Ch Marak.
The final match of the day saw Nongkseh SSCC overpower Mawphu SC 4-0 under lights.
Hardy Cliff Nongbri scored twice, while Shano Tariang and Chesterpaul Lyngdoh added one each to send Nongkseh comfortably into the quarterfinals.
